Southampton signing wonderkid Martin could push Austin out of the exit door

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Southampton are ready to battle Newcastle United for Milton Keynes striker Recoe Martin during the summer transfer window, according to the Daily Mirror.

They report that 18-year-old Martin has caught the eye with his performances at youth level and could well be the subject of a bidding war between the Magpies and the Saints when the window opens.

He has reportedly been compared to Dele Alli – who of course also came through at Stadium:MK – but is more of a goalscorer than a creator.

And Ralph Hasenhuttl has reportedly been looking to reshape his frontline since January, when Sky Sports reported that Charlie Austin was on the market.

Austin ended up staying and has now forced his way back into Hasenhuttl’s plans, but it would still not be a surprise to see him leave this summer with the Austrian preferring more youth and energy up front.

The 29-year-old is a goalscorer but question marks remain over his ability to fully contribute to Hasenhuttl’s preferred passing game and although Martin may be one for the future, he could be sculpted into what this new Southampton side need from a striker.

Austin could well be a mentor for Martin if he comes in but the feeling persists that Hasenhuttl wants an all-round frontman moreso than a poacher like Austin and the arrival of the wonderkid would certainly put the former QPR man’s future into fresh doubt.